New Orleans tours

In New Orleans, Louisiana, there are several bus tours offering fantastic ways to explore the city’s vibrant culture, historic landmarks, and unique attractions. Here are some of the best New Orleans bus tours:

  1. City Sightseeing Tour: Explore the highlights of New Orleans with a comprehensive bus tour that covers iconic landmarks like the French Quarter, Jackson Square, St. Louis Cathedral, Garden District, and the historic cemeteries. Learn about the city’s history, architecture, and cultural heritage from knowledgeable guides.
  2. French Quarter Ghost Tour: Experience the spooky side of New Orleans with a bus tour that visits haunted sites and tells chilling ghost stories. Explore the French Quarter’s narrow streets, historic buildings, and hidden courtyards, and learn about the city’s paranormal legends and supernatural encounters.
  3. Swamp and Bayou Tour: Escape the city with a bus tour to Louisiana’s picturesque swamps and bayous, where you can spot wildlife like alligators, turtles, and birds in their natural habitat. Learn about the ecology of the wetlands and the Cajun culture of the region.
  4. Plantation Tour: Discover the antebellum history of Louisiana with a bus tour that visits historic plantations along the Mississippi River, such as Oak Alley Plantation, Laura Plantation, and Whitney Plantation. Explore the stately homes, gardens, and slave quarters, and learn about the lives of the people who lived and worked on the plantations.
  5. Cemetery Tour: Explore New Orleans’ above-ground cemeteries, known as “Cities of the Dead,” on a bus tour that visits famous burial grounds like St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 and Lafayette Cemetery No. 1. Learn about burial customs, voodoo traditions, and the city’s unique funeral culture.
  6. Music and Jazz Tour: Immerse yourself in the vibrant music scene of New Orleans with a bus tour that visits jazz clubs, music venues, and historic recording studios. Experience live performances by local musicians and learn about the city’s musical heritage, from jazz and blues to zydeco and funk.
  7. Culinary Tour: Indulge in New Orleans’ world-renowned cuisine with a bus tour that visits local eateries, cafes, and markets. Sample classic dishes like gumbo, jambalaya, po’boys, and beignets, and learn about the culinary influences that have shaped Creole and Cajun cooking.
  8. Hurricane Katrina Tour: Learn about the impact of Hurricane Katrina on New Orleans with a bus tour that visits neighborhoods affected by the storm, such as the Lower Ninth Ward and Lakeview. Hear stories of resilience, recovery, and rebuilding from survivors and community leaders.

These New Orleans bus tours offer diverse experiences catering to different interests, whether it’s history, culture, nature, music, food, or the paranormal. They provide convenient and informative ways to explore the dynamic city of New Orleans.

New Orleans is home to several cemeteries that are famous for their elaborate above-ground tombs and the notable individuals buried within them. Some of the most famous people buried in New Orleans include:

  1. Marie Laveau: Marie Laveau, also known as the “Voodoo Queen of New Orleans,” was a legendary practitioner of Voodoo in the 19th century. She is buried in St. Louis Cemetery No. 1, where her tomb is a popular pilgrimage site for visitors seeking blessings and spiritual guidance.
  2. Homer Plessy: Homer Plessy was a civil rights activist who challenged racial segregation laws in the landmark Supreme Court case Plessy v. Ferguson (1896). He is buried in St. Louis Cemetery No. 1, where his tomb serves as a reminder of his contribution to the fight for civil rights.
  3. Bernard de Marigny: Bernard de Marigny was a prominent figure in early New Orleans history, known for his role in the development of the Faubourg Marigny neighborhood and for introducing the game of craps to the United States. He is buried in St. Louis Cemetery No. 1.
  4. Benjamin Latrobe: Benjamin Latrobe was an architect best known for his work on the United States Capitol building in Washington, D.C. He died in New Orleans in 1820 and is buried in the Garden District’s Lafayette Cemetery No. 1.
  5. Jimmie Noone: Jimmie Noone was a renowned jazz clarinetist who played a significant role in shaping the New Orleans jazz scene in the early 20th century. He is buried in Providence Memorial Park Cemetery in Metairie.
  6. Jean Lafitte: Jean Lafitte was a pirate and privateer who operated in the Gulf of Mexico during the early 19th century. He is rumored to be buried in St. Louis Cemetery No. 1, although the exact location of his grave is uncertain.

These are just a few examples of the famous individuals buried in New Orleans, whose legacies continue to be celebrated and remembered by locals and visitors alike.

New Orleans is renowned for its vibrant arts scene, with numerous hot spots where visitors can explore a rich tapestry of visual art, music, and cultural heritage. Here are some of the top art destinations in New Orleans:

  1. New Orleans Museum of Art (NOMA): Located in City Park, NOMA is the city’s premier art museum, housing an extensive collection of over 40,000 artworks spanning thousands of years. The museum features European and American paintings, sculpture, photography, and decorative arts, as well as a significant collection of African, Asian, and Native American art. NOMA also hosts rotating exhibitions, educational programs, and special events throughout the year.
  2. The Ogden Museum of Southern Art: Situated in the Warehouse District, the Ogden Museum of Southern Art is dedicated to showcasing the visual arts and culture of the American South. The museum’s collection includes works by Southern artists, spanning painting, sculpture, photography, and mixed media. The Ogden Museum also hosts lectures, workshops, and live music performances that celebrate the region’s rich artistic heritage.
  3. Frenchmen Street: Frenchmen Street in the Faubourg Marigny neighborhood is known for its lively music scene, but it’s also a hub for visual arts and local crafts. Visitors can explore numerous art galleries, studios, and boutiques showcasing paintings, photography, jewelry, and other handmade goods created by local artists. Frenchmen Street comes alive at night with live music pouring out of the bars and clubs, creating a vibrant and eclectic atmosphere.
  4. Royal Street Galleries: Royal Street in the French Quarter is lined with art galleries, antique shops, and boutique stores, making it a prime destination for art lovers and collectors. Visitors can stroll along Royal Street and browse a wide range of artwork, from traditional and contemporary paintings to sculptures, glasswork, and jewelry. Many galleries offer works by local artists as well as nationally and internationally recognized artists.
  5. Arts District New Orleans (ADNO): The Arts District, also known as the Warehouse District, is home to numerous art galleries, studios, and cultural institutions. Visitors can explore contemporary art spaces like the Contemporary Arts Center (CAC) and the Arthur Roger Gallery, as well as boutique galleries showcasing works by emerging and established artists. The Arts District also hosts regular gallery openings, art walks, and cultural events that highlight the city’s diverse arts community.
  6. Studio BE: Studio BE is a unique art installation and cultural space located in the Bywater neighborhood. Created by local artist Brandan “Bmike” Odums, Studio BE features large-scale murals and immersive art installations that explore themes of social justice, activism, and community empowerment. Visitors can experience the powerful and thought-provoking artwork while learning about the artist’s vision and the issues facing New Orleans and beyond.

These are just a few of the top art hot spots in New Orleans, each offering its own unique blend of creativity, culture, and expression. Whether you’re interested in traditional art forms, contemporary works, or immersive experiences, New Orleans has something for every art enthusiast to discover and explore.

New Orleans is known for its vibrant culinary scene, and food trucks are no exception. Here are some of the best food trucks in New Orleans, offering a delicious array of flavors and dishes:

  1. La Cocinita: La Cocinita specializes in Latin American-inspired street food, with a menu featuring tacos, arepas, and empanadas filled with flavorful ingredients like slow-cooked meats, grilled vegetables, and zesty salsas. Their dishes are made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients and are perfect for enjoying on the go.
  2. Fete au Fete: Fete au Fete offers a taste of traditional Louisiana cuisine with a modern twist. Their menu includes classic dishes like po’boys, gumbo, and shrimp and grits, as well as creative creations like boudin balls and crawfish mac and cheese. Everything is made from scratch using high-quality, locally sourced ingredients.
  3. The Fat Falafel: The Fat Falafel serves up delicious Middle Eastern street food with a New Orleans flair. Their menu features falafel wraps, hummus bowls, and loaded fries topped with falafel balls, tahini sauce, and pickled vegetables. The Fat Falafel’s dishes are vegetarian-friendly and bursting with bold flavors.
  4. NOLA Girl Food Truck: NOLA Girl Food Truck offers a diverse menu of comfort food favorites with a Southern twist. From shrimp and grits to fried chicken sandwiches to BBQ pork sliders, their dishes are hearty, flavorful, and perfect for satisfying your cravings. Don’t forget to try their signature sweet potato fries!
  5. The Fry Bar NOLA: The Fry Bar NOLA specializes in crispy, golden-brown fries topped with a variety of mouthwatering toppings. Their menu includes loaded fries with toppings like chili cheese, buffalo chicken, and BBQ pulled pork, as well as classic favorites like truffle Parmesan and garlic herb. The Fry Bar NOLA’s fries are a must-try for any food truck enthusiast.
  6. Curbside Burgers: Curbside Burgers offers gourmet burgers made with locally sourced beef and creative toppings. Their menu features classic burgers like the “Curbside Classic” with American cheese and bacon, as well as inventive creations like the “Bayou Burger” with Cajun-seasoned beef and spicy remoulade. Pair your burger with a side of hand-cut fries or crispy onion rings for the ultimate indulgence.

These are just a few of the best food trucks in New Orleans, each offering its own unique flavors and culinary delights. Whether you’re in the mood for tacos, falafel, burgers, or fries, New Orleans’ food truck scene has something for everyone to enjoy.

New Orleans is often referred to as the birthplace of jazz, and the city is home to numerous jazz clubs where visitors can experience live music in an intimate and authentic setting. Here are some of the best jazz clubs in New Orleans:

  1. Preservation Hall: Preservation Hall is an iconic venue located in the French Quarter that has been showcasing traditional New Orleans jazz since 1961. The intimate space features wooden benches and no air conditioning, creating an authentic and immersive experience. Visitors can enjoy nightly performances by the Preservation Hall Jazz Band and other local musicians.
  2. Snug Harbor Jazz Bistro: Snug Harbor Jazz Bistro is a beloved jazz club located in the Faubourg Marigny neighborhood, just outside of the French Quarter. The club features nightly performances by some of the best local and touring jazz musicians, as well as a full-service restaurant serving Creole-inspired cuisine. Snug Harbor is known for its intimate atmosphere and top-notch music programming.
  3. The Spotted Cat Music Club: The Spotted Cat Music Club is a cozy jazz club located on Frenchmen Street, known for its vibrant live music scene. The club features nightly performances by local jazz bands and musicians, as well as occasional burlesque shows and other eclectic performances. The Spotted Cat has a laid-back atmosphere and a diverse crowd of music lovers.
  4. Irvin Mayfield’s Jazz Playhouse: Located in the historic Royal Sonesta Hotel on Bourbon Street, Irvin Mayfield’s Jazz Playhouse is a swanky jazz club offering nightly performances by some of the city’s best jazz musicians. The club features a classy yet relaxed atmosphere, with comfortable seating, a full bar, and an extensive cocktail menu inspired by the spirit of New Orleans.
  5. The Jazz Playhouse at the Royal Sonesta: The Jazz Playhouse at the Royal Sonesta is another premier jazz club located in the heart of the French Quarter. The club hosts nightly performances by local jazz bands and musicians, as well as special events and guest artists. The Jazz Playhouse offers a sophisticated ambiance, with plush seating, elegant decor, and a curated selection of craft cocktails.
  6. D.B.A.: D.B.A. is a popular live music venue located on Frenchmen Street, known for its eclectic lineup of local bands and musicians. While not exclusively a jazz club, D.B.A. regularly features jazz performances alongside other genres like blues, funk, and rock. The venue has a laid-back vibe and a spacious outdoor patio where visitors can enjoy drinks and live music late into the night.

These are just a few of the best jazz clubs in New Orleans, each offering its own unique atmosphere and lineup of talented musicians. Whether you’re a lifelong jazz aficionado or just looking to experience the city’s legendary music scene, these clubs are sure to deliver an unforgettable night of music and entertainment.